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Beckley Mountain Homestead Museum
Published on 2012-05-25 05:00:00
After the coal mine tour, we had lunch in the picnic area at the coal mine. We enjoyed listening to the song birds. Very close to the mine is the Mountain Homestead exhibit. It made for a nice walk after lunch. > read more
Inside the Coal Mine
Published on 2012-05-24 04:30:00
Need Prayers/Answered Prayer
Published on 2012-05-23 10:09:00
God has opened another door in answer to several years of prayer. It's a good door that I will believe will yield much fruit for the Lord further along. Clint and I need prayers for wisdom, strength, encouragement, discipline, integrity, discernment, and so much more. This will require a lot from us, but it is worth the investment of time, money, and of ourselves. Nothing we do for the Lord comes without bumps in the road, so pray ahead for those. I wish I could share it all right now, but I can [..] > read more
Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine, WV
Published on 2012-05-23 06:00:00
Our first stop was to the City of Beckley where we visited the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine, Museum, Mining Camp, the Mountain Homestead exhibit, and the Youth Museum. The admission is good for the all of the exhibits for the entire day.Emily and Hannah looking at a kettle bottom which is a piece of petrified tree stump. The bark of the tree forms a seam of coal, but the wood turns to rock. Many miners were killed by kettle bottoms because they would fall out of the ceiling of the mines. > read more
Someone Yelled "Road Trip!"
Published on 2012-05-22 08:58:00
one of the many scenic views from the Skyline DriveMany years ago, Clint and I took Brandon and Amanda to the Shenandoah Valley. We wanted to do the same with Joshua, Caleb, Bethany, Emily and Hannah. Brandon and Amanda both had classes, so they could not go. Since they stayed home, it allowed us to travel a bit further than we normally can because they could take care of our critters. This allowed us to enjoy half a day in West Virginia and tour the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine.We wanted to mak [..] > read more
Banana Pie
Published on 2012-05-22 05:30:00
How We Made Raised Beds in Our Garden
Published on 2012-05-21 05:30:00
Repurposed Tires
Published on 2012-05-20 04:30:00
Clint cut out the side wall of the tire so I could use them as planters for our squash, zucchini, cukes, cantaloupe, watermelon, and pumpkin. I went back and thinned those seedlings. > read more
Herb Pot
Published on 2012-05-19 05:30:00
I bought these herbs just before Thanksgiving in a planter. I kept them alive all winter sitting on the only window space I have in our den. It survived over-watering by eager to help children, neglect by me, and the lower light in the room. My plan is to let it grow big over the summer, harvest what I can use, and replant a bit of each in the original planter to overwinter in the house again. > read more
Prickly Pear Cactus Blooming
Published on 2012-05-18 06:00:00
Caleb
Published on 2012-05-17 05:00:00
Caleb took a fish tank stand we received and turned it into a table to give me more space for my plants. > read more
Link: Depressed? Grow an Anti-Depressant Garden
Published on 2012-05-14 14:04:00
The Top Mood-Boosting Foods in the Garden: Ward off bad moods with a mood-boosting backyard garden.Wendy's note: Don't forget that the sun gives us mood boosting Vitamin D and exercise also boosts the mood. > read more
Shopping List
Published on 2012-05-11 05:30:00
Green Pepper Comparison
Published on 2012-05-10 04:30:00
The one on the left came from Lowes for $12.99. It contains three green pepper plants. The one on the right came from Walmart. It has two green pepper plants and was $9.97. Both are planted in vermiculite and required transplanting to a larger pot with soil. I used the plastic supports in the larger containers. > read more
Flowers
Published on 2012-05-09 05:00:00
The Difference Between Hope and Despair
Published on 2012-05-08 07:32:00
Tattooed Hoes
Published on 2012-05-08 05:30:00
A tattooed hoe!Thank you to my funny friend, Kim, for the play on words! I marked the measurements on my new gardening tools. The old ones left with the barn. When I was a young girl, my grandfather taught me to use my hoe as a measuring device to keep my row and plant spacing and planting depth on target. Since I was carrying a kitten at the time, he probably thought I wasn't paying attention. You never know what part of you people will carry in their hearts and share with the next generat [..] > read more
Article: Baby monkeys given standard doses of popular vaccines develop autism symptoms
Published on 2012-05-06 10:40:00
Taken from: http://www.naturalnews.com/035787_vaccines_autism_monkeys.html Vaccine bombshell: Baby monkeys given standard doses of popular vaccines develop autism symptoms Sunday, May 06, 2012 by: Ethan A. Huff, staff writerIf vaccines play absolutely no role in the development of childhood autism, a claim made by many medical authorities today, then why are some of the most popular vaccines commonly administered to children demonstrably causing autism in animal primates? This is the question [..] > read more
May 2012
Published on 2012-05-03 07:45:00
It is hard to believe how quickly this year is going! My time to type this is very limited. We'll see how many typos I leave! LOL!Clint and I are very happy the situation with the family member is over. We are focusing on our family and our farmette. Spring is a very busy time of year for us!Critter chores have kept us moving. We have cleaned out the animal shelters, clipped hair, given them supplements, shots, and vermicide, trimmed hooves and nails, combed hair, washed bowls and houses, etc. W [..] > read more
Kitchen Storage Containers I Love!
Published on 2012-05-02 07:21:00
These work so well with bulk cooking! > read more
Dilapidated House on Assateague Beach, MD
Published on 2012-04-30 08:27:00
Ocean City Boardwalk
Published on 2012-04-28 05:27:00
Assateague Ponies
Published on 2012-04-27 05:30:00
A Mini Vacation Alone!
Published on 2012-04-25 04:00:00
We had originally planned to take the family on a camping trip, but schedules conflicted. Our teens told Clint and I to go on a weekend by ourselves and volunteered to watch the younger children, run the household, and manage the farm. Clint and I thought for about five seconds and said "See ya!" We left on Thurdsay, the 19th and came back on Sunday, the 22nd. Clint reserved us a suite with a jacuzzi and a fireplace. We went to the Ocean City, MD Boardwalk and toured the area eating at the centu [..] > read more
A Quick and Easy Recipe for Red Potatoes
Published on 2012-04-24 04:20:00
One of my families favorite side dishes is red potatoes. Measurements aren't necessary since it is so simple. I chop the red potatoes and put them into a large mixing bowl. (If I am in a hurry and want the potatoes to cook faster, I cut them thinner like I have in the picture.) Next, I melt a little butter and add celery salt to it. I then pour it into the mixing bowl with the red potatoes. I gently move the potatoes around to evenly and lightly coat them with the butter and celery salt. Then, I [..] > read more
Article: Ashwagandha and Alzheimer’s
Published on 2012-04-23 09:20:00
You can read the entire article here."The NBRC Neuroscientist, Vijayalakshmi Ravindranath, tested the semi-purified sample of the root of the herb, extracted at Delhi University on genetically modified mice with Alzheimer’s disease. The study involved two set of mice –a set of middle aged mice and another set of old mice. They were given oral doses of Ashwagandha root extract for 30 days, and monitored. After one month, the scientists noticed a reduction in the amount of amyloid plaque [..] > read more
Thinking of Suicide?
Published on 2012-04-23 05:06:00
I have two words for you:Hold on. > read more
All About Hair
Published on 2012-04-22 05:20:00
Crock Pot Oatmeal (Used Quick Cook Oats)
Published on 2012-04-21 05:00:00
I tried the recipe from here, but I tripled it and used quick cook oats. That was all I had on hand. I also added six cups of sliced apples and extra cinnamon. I stirred it and then cooked it on low from 11 p.m. until 6 a.m. Then I turned it up to high until breakfast at 6:30. It came out perfect! I have a 1 year old 6 quart Rival crock pot. We ate it for two mornings and then used the rest to make pancakes for the next morning. > read more
Wendy, What Did You Say to Those Children?
Published on 2012-04-20 09:30:00
Because of the looks on some of their faces, I've been asked that a few times.Hannah was very tired from the walk and wasn't cooperating. So, to get her to at least look up, I said "All of the pretty princesses look at the camera!!" > read more
Goodness and Mercy not Luck and Coincidence
Published on 2012-04-20 05:00:00
"We often mislabel Goodness and Mercy. We call them luck or coincidence. In God's economy, luck and coincidence don't exist." -An Untroubled Heart by Micca Campbell. > read more
The End: A Thankful, but Sad Day
Published on 2012-04-19 09:35:00
As of 9 a.m. today, we are finally at the end of this long journey which started over the hidden property. There is one very small detail Clint is doing voluntarily, but it is not required of him. At any other time, if this dropped on us, it would be a happy, joyful occasion.Naturally we can use what God has sent. Extra income is always welcome in a family our size, but there is no joy in this. When we thought he was coming back into our lives, we believed it was solely for a relationship and op [..] > read more
Scenery
Published on 2012-04-19 05:12:00
Horses of Corolla 2012 Part 2
Published on 2012-04-18 05:07:00
Some of our other trips to Corolla: > read more
Epic Star Wars Light Saber Battle on Jockey's Ridge
Published on 2012-04-17 04:33:00
Besides laser tag there was one thing Joshua, 12, said he wanted to do on our OBX vacation."Go to Jockey's Ridge and have an epic Star Wars light saber battle."So, we did it!Yes, we drew a crowd. People loved it! They even cleared the path so Clint could roll down the hill (below) in his dying scene. Have fun; enjoy life! It's too short to let the fear of possible embarrassment keep you from doing things. If your children's dreams are doable, fulfill them.Clint is walking behind Hannah as she cl [..] > read more
Currituck Banks National Estuarine Research Reserve
Published on 2012-04-16 04:40:00
Hannah's Money Saving Gas Tip
Published on 2012-04-15 04:51:00
rocks = gas > read more
Tips for Driving on the Beach in OBX and Corolla
Published on 2012-04-14 05:11:00
This is the first thing we saw as we turned off the paved road onto the Corolla 4x4 beach this year. It's a very frequent sight. This time there were two stuck at the same time. Clint stopped, and we helped them. That's his shovel. The van was stuck repeatedly trying to get out. We can't figure out how he got so far down in the first place.Use a 4WD vehicle. Period. Tow trucks are expensive, and there is usually a long wait.All Wheel Drive is not 4WD.Take a shovel and a strap or chain to pull wi [..] > read more
The Most Expensive Thing in the World is...
Published on 2012-04-14 04:47:00
How to Eat an Apple
Published on 2012-04-12 05:04:00
The older children will grab a piece of fruit or a vegetable any time they want a snack. We go through 40 lbs or more of just fruit a week, but we eat very little junk food. The two little girls normally ask me to get them their food. After a long, hard day at Jockey's Ridge, Hannah (3) was very hungry. Not wanting to wait, she opened the fridge herself, grabbed an apple, and proudly showed Clint and I she was taking care of her own hunger. She was very pleased with herself as she gobbled down t [..] > read more
Article: Why I'm Not Cut Out To Be A Homeschool Mom
Published on 2012-04-11 05:34:00
http://www.growinghomeblog.com/2012/03/why-im-not-cut-out-to-be-homeschool-mom.html offers an excellent look at a homeschooling mother's life. This article fits so well with my own life because I have lived every single bit of it. "I have a news flash to share: Homeschooling moms are “normal”. We are flawed, selfish sinners, just like everyone else. > read more
OBX Spring Vacation 2012
Published on 2012-04-11 05:06:00
We just got back from our nine day OBX Spring Break! Right after going through the miscarriage and dealing with recovery from the blood loss, I wondered how it would go. It was paid for, and I didn't want my gang to miss out on what could be one of our last family vacations with every member present. My family surrounded me with support and made my part of the preparations very easy.viewOn the second floor there were nine windows of nothing but the ocean.Our children loved finding fish, birds, b [..] > read more
Easter Sunrise 2012 Duck, NC
Published on 2012-04-10 19:58:00
Finally! Grammar Help for Homeschooling Teachers and Other Writers
Published on 2012-04-09 18:41:00
Homeschooling teachers have a lot on their plate. Most of us are supervising active younger children while teaching older children while also trying to keep our homes clean and organized. Add to the need to provide nutritious meals and endless other activities. It can be challenging to get everything done and still have time to unwind at the end of the day. One of the areas of homeschooling I have felt to be the most time consuming is checking my children's writing. It is easier in the early gra [..] > read more
MISSING PERSON SUFFOLK VIRGINIA
Published on 2012-04-09 07:16:00
While we do not know Tim personally, so many of our friends are related to this young man. Please share this picture on Facebook and through e-mail and text. Please pray he is found quickly. Our family can relate to the anguish of a missing family member, and it hurts us to see them hurting. Please pray for strength and peace for his family as they wait.UPDATE: This has ended sadly. Please pray for the family to have strength and comfort in the days ahead. Ask the Lord to give them peace. Tim ha [..] > read more
Reflecting: Lessons Learned & An Update
Published on 2012-04-09 07:12:00
re: http://contentmentacres.blogspot.com/2012/04/reflecting-my-family-rocks.htmland http://contentmentacres.blogspot.com/2012/03/where-are-we-on-big-mess.htmlAll of the blue words are links. Recently, Clint sat our family down to talk about the individual we allowed back into our lives in September with eager hopes of a restored relationship. We were looking for "weeds" of anger, bitterness, resentment, or the desire for revenge. This "weed pulling" is an important aspect of parenting. Everyone [..] > read more
Giggles in the House
Published on 2012-04-09 05:10:00
Do You See What I See?
Published on 2012-04-09 04:01:00
Happy Resurrection Sunday!
Published on 2012-04-08 05:37:00
John 11:25-26 > read more
The Children Whom the Lord Has Given Me
Published on 2012-04-05 09:02:00
Caleb's Inventions and Little Girls "Reading"
Published on 2012-04-05 05:07:00
Emily and Hannah with "Too Many Monsters" by Eve BuntingThey grabbed the book off my bed, took it as far as the hallway, and dropped to the floor to "read." Caleb's inventions using the Snap Circuit set. > read more
Maggie
Published on 2012-04-04 04:51:00
More From My Garden
Published on 2012-04-03 18:42:00
Reflecting: My Family Rocks!!
Published on 2012-04-03 05:34:00
Clothes Do Strange Things in the Attic
Published on 2012-04-03 05:16:00
A couple of weeks ago, I brought down summer clothes for Emily. She told me "I wear 4s!" I said "Not this year! This year you wear size 5!" She gasped and exclaimed, "My clothes keep GROWING!!!" > read more
As Promised...About Me
Published on 2012-04-02 05:01:00
While we picked a dozen people we knew would pray for us, we did not announce our pregnancy due to concerns it would give the person who has caused us so much trouble another reason to create turmoil. Clint figured they would act similar to how they acted last year and told me to wait until the situation had ended to announce it. As it worked out, they created a great deal of stress anyway by making changes to the house without consent. We had another miscarriage. We lost twins this time. God ha [..] > read more
April 2012
Published on 2012-04-01 05:25:00
In just a few days, we pay off our mortgage!! We owe approximately $1400 which will be paid in the first week of April. PTL! We are helping two children through college and the payments for both start ...this month. Isn't God's timing perfect?!Brandon (19) has been offered a second internship opportunity! He has kept our garden tilled all winter and is now keeping the grass and weed eating done. When he takes a break from studying, he will take a load of laundry out, instruct the middles to hang [..] > read more
Hyacinth, Phlox, Some Border Plant
Published on 2012-03-31 05:11:00
Pertussis (Whooping Cough)
Published on 2012-03-30 21:14:00
Pertussis is the infection. Whooping cough is a symptom of Pertussis. Several of my friends have asked me if I had any links with information to help those exposed to Pertussis.Here are the links I am sharing with them:http://www.theecomum.com/1/post/2011/6/recipe-beat-the-dreaded-whoop-natural-ways-to-avoid-eliminate-whooping-cough.htmlhttp://www.whale.to/vaccines/whooping2.html > read more
Daff-O-Deels
Published on 2012-03-30 05:07:00
Tulips
Published on 2012-03-29 04:56:00
Comfrey
Published on 2012-03-28 04:51:00
Reading
Published on 2012-03-27 05:26:00
Clint reading "Too Many Monsters" by Eve Bunting to Emily and Hannah at bedtime."It's the quacking that scares them." > read more
Out of the Mouths of Babes Comes Praise
Published on 2012-03-26 05:11:00
One of the good things about the incident our family has been through recently is that our children have learned many spiritual lessons.Bethany has clearly been thinking on the things she has seen. She asked me, "Didn't anyone ever teach (the person) about our actions having consequences?"Me: "I don't know if they were ever taught that, but they should know."Bethany: "Well, they know now, because God is teaching them hard lessons what happens when you lie!! You have to do things God's way, or yo [..] > read more
Emerging Hostas
Published on 2012-03-26 05:08:00
emerging hostasjust a few days laterI love walking around our place and seeing the day to day changes this time of year! > read more
I Am Convinced There is a Cape and Some Tights in His Closet
Published on 2012-03-25 10:02:00
Clint and I headed out to buy groceries at Sam's Club yesterday afternoon. Because of something affecting me health wise, I have not purchased groceries in over two weeks, so we needed to get them. We arrived at Sam's Club, got out of the truck, and Clint looked at me and said "Oh no! I forgot my bank card. I didn't put it back in my pants when Brandon used it. It is on the night stand at home." Sam's Club is about 35 minutes from our farm, and we have to go through some traffic to get to it. I [..] > read more
Practical Advice
Published on 2012-03-25 05:30:00
picture belongs to savedwithamazinggrace.tumblr > read more
Prayer Request for a Friend
Published on 2012-03-24 11:09:00
A friend of ours has been battling cancer for a couple of years now. The combined chemo and radiation treatment is very hard on her this week. There are also several signs that she is quickly nearing the end of her battle. Please keep her and her family in your prayers. While her children are grown, they still love their mother, and their children love their grandmother. Her husband needs prayers too.May the Lord bless you for your ministry of prayer to this family.Ephesians 6:18 > read more
Heal Your Body with Your Diet
Published on 2012-03-24 05:14:00
This video is worth your time to watch. "In 2003 Terry Wahls, M.D., was diagnosed with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis and soon became dependent upon a tilt-recline wheelchair. After developing and using the Wahls Protocol™, she is now able to walk through the hospital and commute to work by bicycle. She now uses intensive directed nutrition in her primary care and traumatic brain injury clinics. Dr. Wahls is the lead scientist in a clinical trial testing her protocol in others [..] > read more
Grill Daddy!
Published on 2012-03-23 04:32:00
What a wonderful break it is for us wives when our husband's cook! > read more
Bible Study
Published on 2012-03-22 04:20:00
Our children value what Clint teaches them because he doesn't just "talk." > read more
Virginia Homeschooled Six Year Old to Compete in National Spelling Bee
Published on 2012-03-13 20:46:00
http://www.wtkr.com/news/sns-rt-us-usa-spellingbeebre82c0zw-20120313,0,6754813.storyWASHINGTON (Reuters) - A 6-year-old U.S. girl will become the youngest contestant ever in the Scripps National Spelling Bee after winning a regional competition in Virginia.Lori Anne Madison, of Woodbridge, Virginia, won the Prince William County spelling contest earlier this month, beating out 21 top elementary and middle school competitors. Her winning word: "vaquero," a word of Spanish origin meaning cowb [..] > read more
Now, A Bigger Mess
Published on 2012-03-12 13:05:00
The ongoing saga: http://contentmentacres.blogspot.com/2012/03/where-are-we-on-big-mess.htmlBEFOREAFTERLast night, Clint went to check on his property. He has been waiting for several weeks for promised papers to arrive so he could take it to his attorney and consider signing. Upon our arrival in Suffolk, we found extensive work was being done without Clint's consent which blatantly infringes upon his rights as a property owner. Once again, we see how low this person will stoop to seek the [..] > read more
If You Don't Want Anyone to Find Out...
Published on 2012-03-10 21:13:00
My Little Boys
Published on 2012-03-10 05:09:00
Caleb is the baby I had in 20 minutes. He was born into Clint's hands in our bedroom. He has an incredibly close relationship with Clint. He is 10 years old now. Eye see you! Joshua is a ham!Joshua multitasking.He was counting ribs in one of the anatomy books and doing leg lifts at the same time.Not many people are aware of this, but I was told I'd likely never have children. They told me if I did, it would be very, very difficult for me to even conceive. I am humbled and very thankful for al [..] > read more
Everyone Should Know They are Valued
Published on 2012-03-09 17:22:00
Emily (4) just told me she likes going to the bathroom after a grown up because they leave the toilet seat warm for her. :0) It's good to know we are useful for something! LOL!! > read more
Homeschool Freebie Hero Classics DVD from Nest
Published on 2012-03-09 14:40:00
https://www.nestlearning.com/t-email_signup.aspx "Receive one of our 20 award-winning Hero Classics Series titles when you become a NEST Family Member. Just sign up below and you'll get the scoop on upcoming sales, promotions and exclusive email offers!"The DVD is free and comes with a free coloring pages download. Regular shipping is also free. > read more
Prayer Request
Published on 2012-03-09 08:45:00
Clint and I need prayers for safety, health, and well being for one of our family members. > read more
Shed Storage Space
Published on 2012-03-09 08:18:00
I was asked to explain the extra storage we made in our barn style shed from Crutchman. Our sheds are 20' x 10' with 7' walls with a barn roof on them. We have insulated one of the five we purchased after the fire. We hope to one day insulate the one in the pictures below, but our workload is too heavy right now.To get more storage space, Clint added a loft at 7'. Storage bins fit nicely. Under the floor of the loft, he put up boards to create a "cubby hole" big enough to store books, games, etc [..] > read more
Our House Tonight
Published on 2012-03-07 22:03:00
Hannah crawled up Clint and sat on his chest. Without a word, she started building. He was her table. She did not talk and was very serious.... and would not take time out for silliness!(She told us later she was making a "flying thing.")The rest of them made of up for it though!(Brandon was studying.)Psalm 19:8 The precepts of the LORD are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes. > read more
36 Cent Doll Diapers
Published on 2012-03-07 06:08:00
This is my doll. I play with her with my girls. I bought her when I was expecting Joshua and used her to teach Brandon and Amanda how to handle and care for a baby. I have used her before every birth to demonstrate baby care with all of my children since. At 13 years old, she has some wear, but I hope I get to use her with my grandchildren.My time to do things like this is very limited, so I need ideas that do not take a lot of time. I also know how rough my active children are on toys so I did [..] > read more
How to Love a Difficult Person by Beth Moore
Published on 2012-03-07 06:07:00
Agape love is how a person needs to be loved, not how necessarily how they want to be loved. Sometimes you have to pull away from bad behaviors, but it should be because it is the best thing for them.Thank you to Jen M. for sharing! > read more
How to Recycle Repurpose Upcycle Glass Bottles
Published on 2012-03-06 13:03:00
This works! We did it with a large wine bottle we received from a restaurant. I am not sure where Clint put the bottle, but if I find it, I will post a picture. You can make many different things from the bottles like greenhouses, self-watering planters, pencil holders, vases, lamps, candle holdes, etc, etc. It was very easy! > read more
Where Are We on the "Big Mess?"
Published on 2012-03-04 11:08:00
We are getting questions about what is going on with the "big mess" that dropped on us in September. (An overview is here: http://contentmentacres.blogspot.com/2012/02/can-stress-cause-miscarriage.html and http://contentmentacres.blogspot.com/2012/02/week-before-christmas-clint-sent-person.html)On the business end: We are currently trying to settle out of court and are hoping things will be finished quickly so we can end this chapter and move forward with our lives. Nothing in this situation has [..] > read more
Do You Smell Burning Plastic?
Published on 2012-03-04 05:00:00
Wendy: "Do you smell burning plastic?"Clint (very aware he has seven active and curious children): "No, but I will go check it out!"Wendy: "You really don't smell anything?"Clint: "No." (He walks away to check it out.)Wendy: "I don't either, but I wanted to ask."Pause.Clint : "What did you say?"Wendy: "I don't either, but I wanted to ask if you did."Clint : "You nut!" > read more
On My Wall
Published on 2012-03-03 05:44:00
Life Goes On...
Published on 2012-03-02 05:27:00
Clint and I love this shot of Hannah running!Emily is always looking out for Hannah....when she's not cutting off her hair! :-)Hannah has grown enough to get into the swing seat without help this year.Joshua with his "hurry up Mom and take the picture" expression.You can mostly find Bethany in a tree these days!Caleb found dead trees and scrap wood to make himself a ladder to get into his tree fort!He is making an extra floor to the fort so "Aunt" Lyn will have her own place to stay when she vi [..] > read more
Close Calls, Grey Hair, and Answered Prayers
Published on 2012-03-01 05:07:00
Brandon on the zip line.Brandon left for college an hour early yesterday. Traffic was heavy. There was an accident on the road he needed to go down and police had both lanes blocked off. He tried to turn around, but no one would let him change lanes, so he had a much longer detour.While he was on his way back to the college, he asked the Lord to delay the teacher so he would not be marked tardy for the class. Class attendance factors into his grades, and he currently has a 4.0 in the course. He [..] > read more
Coconut Oil Touted as Alzheimer's Remedy
Published on 2012-03-01 05:05:00
In case they shut down the embedding: http://www.cbn.com/media/player/index.aspx?s=/mp4/LJO190v1_WSWe have several friends whose parents have been diagnosed recently with Alzheimer's. I hope this blesses someone. > read more
Before/After
Published on 2012-02-29 11:40:00
just before the barn fireThe fire trucks were here to fight the brush fire that snaked around back.We still miss our big barn. It had been built decades ago and was nice respite from summer's heat.It was a peaceful and pleasant place with many fond memories.taken last weekWe now have five small "barns."It is amazing how much and for how long a big loss affects life afterwards.We used the big barn several times a day. We had dry household storage (building materials, clothing, seasonal items, etc [..] > read more
And, So It Begins...
Published on 2012-02-29 05:04:00
Every year when the weather starts warming up, Joshua and Caleb test themselves against Amanda. They know they have to beat her before they can take on Brandon. Usually, it is both boys testing their strength against their very good-natured sister! Last week, Joshua decided to go one on one with a "sword" battle. He's looking pretty fierce! He had her on the run a lot! She still got in plenty of strategic shots!She was in trouble when her "sword" broke!You can see victory on his face!If they tr [..] > read more
An Aggravating Cat and Acts of Love
Published on 2012-02-28 04:54:00
I put the birds outside when the weather is nice so they can enjoy the fresh air and sunshine too. It always attracts the cats though. That kitten has big aspirations! This is the infamous Miracle's kitten "Minnie Mi." She stared at that cage the whole time it was outside. She never found a way to get to it though.Do not fall for that innocent look!This cat is trouble! :-) Miracle (who is a miracle) and Minnie Mi in Brandon's lap.Brandon with Miracle and Mini Mi.Miracle is eight years old and i [..] > read more
A Year Later
Published on 2012-02-27 16:05:00
We are still trying to get our lives settled from the barn fire that happened a year ago February 19th.We have a lot of building, organizing, and arranging to do in all of the sheds still, but we'll get it. We need to run water and power to some of them. This is the most difficult shed because it holds the most stuff and will be used several times daily. I am trying very hard to get this shed fully functional before spring.It's not helping that Clint keeps sticking his stuff in there (ahem!). [..] > read more
Playtime!
Published on 2012-02-27 05:00:00
Miss Em Hannah with the short hair! through the playhouse Maggie gets jealous and shows off when I am taking pictures of the children. sandbox Sandpie!If you look close, you can see how uneven Hannah's hair still is. Emily went right to the skin with some cuts.Sisters > read more
Daffodils at Contentment Acres in February
Published on 2012-02-26 17:53:00
We have enjoyed the warmer weather this winter.The children joke that winter is on vacation! > read more
Texas Roadhouse
Published on 2012-02-26 17:14:00
This is for Jonathan, the Texas Roadhouse waiter. As you can see, we really do have seven children and very little phases us! :-) Now that you are family, drop us an e-mail contentmentacres@yahoo.com so you can plan a day for a visit! Tell your mama "No more orange hair!" :-) We hope work is going better than it was for you on Friday. > read more
Forgiveness
Published on 2012-02-24 21:23:00
Someone Prayed For Us
Published on 2012-02-24 08:39:00
I do not know who, but someone out there prayed for something very special for Clint and I. It happened! Thank you! > read more
Do Good Anyway
Published on 2012-02-22 05:18:00
Anywayby Mother Teresa People are often unreasonable, illogical and self centered;Forgive them anyway.If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives;Be kind anyway.If you are successful, you will win some false friends and some true enemies;Succeed anyway.If you are honest and frank, people may cheat you;Be honest and frank anyway.What you spend years building, someone could destroy overnight;Build anyway.If you find serenity and happiness, they may be jealous;Be happy any [..] > read more
Flash Card Storage Ideas
Published on 2012-02-22 05:03:00
I was asked by a reader if I had any ideas for storing flash cards "since the boxes do not last very long." She is right about the boxes not lasting long. I have had many boxes tear as I opened the set because they were packaged so tightly.What I normally do is cut out the label, throw away the rest of the box, put a rubber band around the cards, and store them with the label on top inside plastic sandwich bags. I put those together in a gallon sized plastic freezer bag. This is simple, cheap, w [..] > read more
Host an Orphan in Your Home Through New Horizons for Children
Published on 2012-02-21 15:26:00
I learned about this ministry though Above Rubies. The cost is $3,000 (an easy amount to fundraise) and a home safety study by a social worker is required. "Welcome to the New Horizons For Children Website. We are a Christian based, international hosting program, which brings over orphaned children from Eastern Europe twice a year to share with them the love of God and the love of a family." > read more
Planting Guide Based on Zip Code
Published on 2012-02-20 17:22:00
http://sproutrobot.com/ Type in your zip code and it will tell you what to plant when in your area. > read more
Vegetable Planting Guide and Recommended Planting Dates
Published on 2012-02-20 11:34:00
Spring planting guide with chartFall planting guide with chartYou have to fill the charts in based on the frost dates in your region of the state. It's easy to do and gives you a good guide to know when to plant for each season These are for Virginia. If you are in another state, check your state's cooperation extension office website and see if they have one. If not, call the state cooperation extension office. If that doesn't work, you can still find one based on your planting zone. When [..] > read more
Quick, Nutritious Breakfast
Published on 2012-02-19 13:56:00
cooked, chopped vegetables (Normandy Blend is what I used here.) My Wilton's Baker's Blade is one of my most used items!caramelized onions This brownie cutter/lifter was found at Dollar Tree. I use it a lot also. Egg Muffins before bakingEgg Muffins Bulk cooking is a necessity in our house. If I had to cook individual meals three times a day, I would have very little time for anything else in my life. It makes more sense and is time saving to cook extra meals while your tools and ingredients are [..] > read more
Legal Action, Prayer Requests, and Praises
Published on 2012-02-19 06:35:00
At the beginning of all of this, Clint wanted to settle it quickly and preserve the relationship. The other person says they are a Christian. Clint offered that both sides settle the dispute by giving the house to charity. Clint was very willing to do this since it would have proven to both parties what was really important to the other person. Our family has also seen God's abundant provision in response to giving and know God would have blessed us. Clint's offer was met with a swift and indign [..] > read more
The Stress and Miscarriage Correlation
Published on 2012-02-18 23:33:00
Because of yesterday's post, a lot of women are asking me about the correlation between stress and miscarriage. Below are links with more information. I am sure there are more and you can always search for the individual studies.To the women who are concerned about miscarrying: There is some evidence that progesterone can help counteract the effects of stress on the pregnancy. You can try progesterone cream or get progesterone from your OB. I would do everything I could to minimize cortisol leve [..] > read more
Can Stress Cause a Miscarriage?
Published on 2012-02-18 11:16:00
http://www.webmd.com/infertility-and-reproduction/news/20030605/how-stress-causes-miscarriage There are many more articles on how stress affects the hormonal levels in pregnant women, especially in the first stages of pregnancy. Yes. Doctors believe the extreme stress caused by a person's open hostility towards our entire family last year after they saw our pregnancy announcement resulted in my miscarriage January 1, 2011. According to church leadership, what they said was a curse against each o [..] > read more
Prayer Request
Published on 2012-02-18 11:06:00
I am having a hard day today thinking about the baby I lost January 1, 2011. Please lift a prayer for me. My husband and children need me. > read more
The Trimmed Up Hair
Published on 2012-02-16 18:18:00
I had to shave her hair down to 5/8" to even the heinous haircut out.The whole time I did it, I kept thinking "This is what I do to my little boys, not my little girls! This is so wrong!" :-)Hannah with her new "hair." We're going to have to get creative for the spring pictures!In case you land on this post as a separate page, this story goes with this one. > read more
Another Toddler Hair Cut! Lord, Have Mercy!
Published on 2012-02-16 18:08:00
The Victim:Perpetrators:This was actually a chain of events. Bethany left the safety scissors down after she did a craft. Emily, never one to bypass opportunity, grabbed them and hacked her sister's lovely locks off. Emily works fast! This isn't her first hair atrocity, click here for here the job she did on herself. (Note my prophetic note at the end of that post! :0) My poor baby, Hannah! Her lovely curls are gone!The teen who didn't take me seriously when I told him to keep a good eye on them [..] > read more
A Little Help
Published on 2012-02-15 15:49:00
The other day, I asked myself "Why is it taking me so long to clean this bathroom?!" Then, I turned around and saw my help! They do slow me down, but I have proof in my older children that it is so worth it! > read more
Melted Snowman Cookie
Published on 2012-02-15 15:33:00
We didn't get too fancy because the children ate them right away!Sugar cookie and a marshmallow make the snowman's body. The rest you can figure out! > read more
Bulk Cooking
Published on 2012-02-15 15:31:00
This is how I package individual meals when I bulk cook.Pans are 3 for a $1 at Dollar Tree and are reusable.The cardboard lids do not hold up well, so we cut new ones from recycled plastic food packaging or use foil sheeting. We reheat our food in the oven or toaster oven because food tastes better than when you reheat it in a microwave. > read more
What Real Love Looks Like
Published on 2012-02-14 10:16:00
(not our image, not sure where it originated, Thank you to Mike Y. for sharing!)1 Corinthians 13If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing. Love is patien [..] > read more
Woman Commands Robber to Leave Store in the Name of Jesus
Published on 2012-02-14 09:20:00
CBS NEWS: Jesus Saves Jewelry Store Owner; Armed Robber "Arrested by the Holy Spirit"This is amazing! Proverbs 18:10 The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe. > read more
Trials
Published on 2012-02-13 12:42:00
This week is guaranteed to have some bumps in the road, but we are keeping our eyes on Christ, trying to obey Him, and focusing on His promises to smooth out the ride. I thought I'd share this quote to encourage others who are in similar circumstances.TRIALS are like a WASHING MACHINE. They twist us, spin us and knock us around but in the end, we come out cleaner, brighter and better than before. Have faith in Him! ~unknown > read more
More Photos
Published on 2012-02-11 05:00:00
Bible Study Time (cell phone pict)an interruption in work for some snuggles Hannah sleeping on me Maggie insists on being treated like one of the children! horse has new shoesAmen! > read more
Sunset on the James River
Published on 2012-02-10 12:59:00
The Little Girl's Are Always Happy When Big Brother is Home!
Published on 2011-06-30 15:06:00
Documentary series Seeking Families Considering Father Directed Biblical Betrothal or Courtship
Published on 2011-06-30 14:47:00
This was in my inbox today. Documentary series seeking families considering Father Directed Biblical Betrothal or CourtshipAre you or a loved one about to enter into negotiations for a Father-Directed Biblical Betrothal or courtship? Do you know a fa > read more
No More Minimizing Pain
Published on 2011-06-27 07:59:00
"There is no suffering gauge in Scripture, as if being burned at the stake scores a 100, Stage IV cancer is an 85, a broken friendship is a 50 and uncomfortable shoes are a 5. ... A suffering gauge would inevitably be accompanied by a compassion mete > read more
Bees is Bad!
Published on 2011-06-24 12:27:00
Our two year old Hannah is going through the stage of development where she has realized not all things are good. A few nights ago, she woke up very upset from a nightmare. She came running to us saying emphatically "I don't like bees! Bees "tin > read more
Me and My Gang (minus one)
Published on 2011-06-15 22:42:00
Update on Zach
Published on 2011-06-14 08:01:00
Thank you to those who have been praying for Zach. (see post below) Zach is no longer suffering. He passed away at 2 a.m. He is rejoicing in perfect health inside of the gates of Heaven. Please lift his loved ones up in prayer. > read more
Article I Contributed to for Crosswalk.com
Published on 2011-06-10 14:57:00
http://www.crosswalk.com/family/parenting/kids/why-do-children-lie.htmlThis is the article I was interviewed for a few weeks back. Thank you Sarah Hamaker for allowing me to contribute.WELCOME to the visitors from Crosswalk.com! I have some prayer re > read more
Life
Published on 2011-06-07 20:23:00
This is one of our new barns. Number 5 is suppose to be delivered tomorrow.Hannah is cutting Clint's hair.Just wanted to post something to let everyone know we are doing great! :-) > read more
Girls
Published on 2011-05-21 20:08:00
Emily saw the flowerboxes on the front of the playhouse and asked if she could plant flowers.She and Hannah planted marigolds.I used the moisture control soil hoping it would keep them healthy during the hot summer months. > read more
Homeless Barn Swallows
Published on 2011-05-21 20:02:00
Amanda captured these quick pictures of barn swallows when they returned today.Barn swallows have nested in our barn since before we moved here 16 years ago. We've seen several generations of these animated birds. At times, we'd have a dozen nests fu > read more
God is Good!
Published on 2011-05-17 16:10:00
Just like the flood and Amanda's sleepwalking, I would never willingly chosen to go through the barn fire we had. Just like the flood and Amanda's sleepwalking brought many positive things to our family, we are seeing God's hand post barn fire.W > read more
A New Playground
Published on 2011-05-17 15:41:00
The embers that blew from the barn set much of our yard on fire. We had to throw away many of the children's outdoor toys because they had melted. Even their metal (shed) clubhouse had the wooden floor burned out. We wanted to give them a safe place > read more
Thoughts on Couponing
Published on 2011-05-07 09:11:00
Thank you Lyn for sharing this link:http://www.theprairiehomestead.com/2011/05/why-i-dont-clip-coupons.htmlThis sums up why I do not clip coupons for processed foods. If I ever have free time again, I might clip them for the toiletry (minus > read more
Highlander Swing Set
Published on 2011-05-06 14:06:00
Work faster Clint!!! :-)The children chanted "Build! Build! Build!" until Clint woke up the morning after we bought it. I am pretty sure this was orchestrated by Joshua! They were tickled with themselves to the point of giggling, so it was a fun way > read more
Update on Us
Published on 2011-05-02 08:08:00
On April 22, Clint and I were rearended by a man who was coming off of a side road into Wendy's parking lot. He gunned his truck to cut off a woman who had followed the arrows around the store to get into line behind us. According to her, he was flip > read more
Richard L. Ingram
Published on 2011-04-26 10:01:00
Richard was a friend of Clint's. They worked together at Siemen's Automotive. I had met him when we'd run into him in stores and other places. Normally, I would not discuss this here, but there are some ugly, ugly rumors going around that are qu > read more
Poodles and Tornadoes and Rejoicing
Published on 2011-04-26 09:32:00
Maggie and Tippy were purchased from Golden Acres Kennels in Colerain, NC. Mr. Perry runs a tight kennel and give excellent care to his dogs. If you are familiar with the tornados that hit the east coast, when you read Colerain you said " > read more
Update on the Fire
Published on 2011-04-20 09:44:00
We are already counting the days to our next trip to OBX.Fire Update:We've been asked a lot about how Farm Bureau is treating us. They are treating us excellently. Ann is our adjuster. All of our questions have been answered promptly. When we had a n > read more
OBX Photos
Published on 2011-04-20 08:45:00
Rub a dub dub, three girls in a jacuzzi tub!I enjoyed the hot tub, but this jacuzzi in the master suite was da bomb!Caleb was "good and dirty" after playing with several other children on Jockey's Ridge!Clint and I sat in the overlook since my injure > read more
Wild Horse of Corolla
Published on 2011-04-20 08:35:00
While we were in OBX, Clint took me to Corolla and Carova Beaches to spend the day. We explored the entire area, saw so many of the horses that I could not keep count, watched the sunset and then drove back on the beach at night while the moonlight d > read more
Oodles of Poodles
Published on 2011-04-20 08:24:00
I have always wanted to raise teacup poodles. The Lord has recently blessed us with three!This is Mr. Tippy Toes "Tippy" or Barefoot in OBX (Outerbanks) "Bear."I have not decided on a name yet. Let me know which you like best at contentmentacres@yaho > read more
Hodge Podge of Images
Published on 2011-04-20 08:16:00
Hope is not allowed in the house, but I couldn't put her out when I saw how she was watching over Hannah as she slept.herb seedlingsWe pulled up the two sets of old steps in front of the cottage.Amanda's sea glass > read more
Gloucester, VA Tornado
Published on 2011-04-18 06:43:00
Please join us in prayer for our county which was hit by a tornado that killed three people and destroyed many homes. A tornado like this is very unusual for our area. The destruction was 12 miles long and went very close to several friends of ours. > read more
Home from OBX
Published on 2011-04-16 16:24:00
We are home from a week in the OBX. The entire family had a wonderful time! Clint and I spent an entire day alone on Corolla and Corova beaches. This is the truck at sunset. Driving on the beach at night while watching the moonlight dance on the wave > read more
Make Your Own Ressurection Eggs Craft
Published on 2011-04-08 13:11:00
http://www.southernsavers.com/2010/03/archive-frugal-resurrection-eggs/ Make your own Resurrection Eggs for Resurrection Sunday. > read more
Fort Table Cover Makes a Great Handmade Gift Idea
Published on 2011-04-07 12:37:00
http://www.makeit-loveit.com/2009/02/fort-table-cover.html has all of the instructions and pictures necessary. > read more
Animal Tracks Lesson Plan
Published on 2011-04-06 17:33:00
I came across this lesson plan while searching the internet to find the tracks I spotted on my walk today. http://www.skullduggery.com/Lessons/0470-3.pdf Animal Trackshttp://www.skullduggery.com/Lessons.htm More Lesson Plans > read more
Senses Quiz
Published on 2011-04-05 14:03:00
http://www.bbc.co.uk/science/humanbody/body/interactives/senseschallenge/senses.swf20 timed questions put your senses to the test. Explanations are given. > read more
It is a Big Store!
Published on 2011-04-04 18:25:00
I forgot how large Sams Club seems to the children. Caleb (9): "Mom? What are all those people's pictures up there for?" Me: "Those are people who are missing." Caleb pointing with his thumb over his shoulder: "In here?" > read more
Simple Truth
Published on 2011-04-04 08:17:00
Miss Hannah and Miss Em
Published on 2011-04-04 08:10:00
Every day, Hannah (2) insists she does not need a nap. Nearly every time, she falls asleep sitting up! Miss Em (3) having a "quiet time" while Hannah naps. She's losing that baby look and looks like a little girl! The pretty locks she lopped of > read more
Smith and Wesson
Published on 2011-04-04 08:01:00
These are our two Vietnamese Potbelly Pigs, Smith & Wesson. We have had a terrible time keeping them in a pen since the fire happened. I think we made a good modification to their temporary pen last night. If it holds them, we will call it Fort K > read more
Luke is Home
Published on 2011-03-30 05:40:00
The doctors released Luke Monday night. They could not find anything in their tests, so they said he probably had a virus. The family is happy to be at home and together again. Christy is hoping to find someone at the Joubert Syndrome Conference who > read more
Watch the Space Station Grow!
Published on 2011-03-28 11:22:00
http://i.usatoday.net/tech/graphics/iss_timeline/flash.htm Time lapse flash movie of the International Space Station's growth. > read more
It IS a Big Store!
Published on 2011-03-28 08:22:00
Last Thursday, I was reminded how large Sam's Club seems to the children. Caleb (9): "Mom? What are all those people's pictures up there for?" Me: "Those are people who are missing." Caleb pointing with his thumb over his shoulder > read more
Cutting Board
Published on 2011-03-28 04:40:00
Immediately after the barn burned down, I was pretty discouraged to have lost so many things people in my family had handcrafted out of wood. Coming from generations of woodworkers/builders, I value something well made. Right after the barn burned do > read more
Luke
Published on 2011-03-27 09:48:00
Luke made improvements overnight. He's sitting up watching his Willy Wonka movie again. They are trying to find the source of the fever. This afternoon, they will start feeds up again if his levels look good. > read more
Luke Needs Immediate Prayers
Published on 2011-03-26 23:19:00
Luke's mother Christy, through his Aunt Jennifer, asked me to let the prayer warriors know that the doctors are concerned. His labs tonight showed a low hemoglobin and an electrolyte imbalance. His fever is concerning them. They are also concerned be > read more
This is Luke!
Published on 2011-03-26 22:05:00
You've been so faithful about praying for this little one; I've asked his mother if I could share a picture of him as a way to thankful. Christy readily agreed. Isn't he precious? The backpack holds his air and you can see the tube for that running u > read more
Update on Luke
Published on 2011-03-26 04:30:00
Thank you for the prayers! Luke has improved! He is awake, but still not fully himself. His potassium levels are low, but his sodium is in the normal range. Those need to be brought into the right balance for the blood cells to work properly. He is c > read more
Urgent Prayer for Silas & His Family
Published on 2011-03-25 12:13:00
Please pray for the Cameron family in our local CHKD. From his Dad: "Today's news was hard. The areas of his brain that were swollen are now cystic (not living). Some of the damage did manage to make it into the gray matter." Silas is vomit > read more
Urgent Prayer Request for Luke
Published on 2011-03-25 07:30:00
Please pray for my friend's son, Luke. These are Christy's (his mother) words.Yesterday 3/24: Luke took a turn for the worse this afternoon...he became lethargic and unresponsive..he wouldn't wake up. They became concerned about swelling on the brain > read more
Superman Update
Published on 2011-03-23 09:48:00
Luke's sodium levels peaked higher last night and then started going down a little too fast. The doctors slowed that to prevent swelling on the brain and other neurological problems from happening. He is still very sick and is dehydrated, but has per > read more
On Monday Night,
Published on 2011-03-23 09:40:00
we dropped off the things mentioned in the post below to the Abingdon Volunteer Fire Department. After we did, Lt Knight gave Clint, I and Caleb and Bethany a tour of the fire house and vehicles and equipment. (The other children were at home. We had > read more
In Appreciation
Published on 2011-03-23 09:35:00
This is a copy of the letter we presented to AVFD along with a plaque that had a verse from Numbers that is a prayer for their safety and well being and a small donation. These volunteers deserve recognition for their hard work on that very long and > read more
Urgent Prayer Request
Published on 2011-03-22 07:04:00
If you have followed the blog for a while now, you know our friend Christy has a son named Luke who is very special needs. Luke is a 3 (almost 4) year old who we believe has Joubert's Syndrome. He is seriously dehydrated and has been airlifted to a b > read more
A Wee Bit O' Fun on St. Patty's Day
Published on 2011-03-17 10:50:00
Homeschool lunch menu: green tinted chicken and rice (fastest thing I could make and turn green), green drink and lime jello Joshua wrote a two page report on St. Patrick's life and will read it to us after lunch.Oh yes! There has been pinching today > read more
Living with Coyotes in Gloucester, VA
Published on 2011-03-15 16:38:00
taken from:http://www.gloucesterva.info/AnimalControl/LivingwithCoyotes/tabid/1192/Default.aspxHOW DO WE LIVE WITH COYOTESIf we follow some basic guidelines we can live with coyotes and minimize problems. DO'SSupervise small children when they > read more
Home Stretch
Published on 2011-03-14 11:14:00
the day after the fire Clean up was complete after two weeks!!The pile in the back is damaged fencing. We are trying to burn off what we can so it will be light enough to load in the truck to take to the recycling yard.The white posts mark off the ne > read more
Coyote Again
Published on 2011-03-14 11:04:00
He really likes it here. That's OK; I have plans for him.A few years ago, we lost goats and cats to coyote attacks. It was more than one who killed them.The goats died in a very horrible manner. Earnestine, our queen doe, was ripped open and her babi > read more
Durastill Water Distiller
Published on 2011-03-12 21:59:00
After a couple of weeks of disappointment with other sales reps, we tried Jay. Jay Reed at The Water Distiller Store gave us speedy, courteous, and professional service. If you are looking for a home or commercial water distiller, we highly recommend > read more
Coyote Picts
Published on 2011-03-12 13:47:00
taken on our place this week > read more
Contents List and Fencing
Published on 2011-03-12 08:55:00
Today, I hope to finish handwriting the contents list onto the forms the insurance company gave us. We asked if it could be done another way, and they said it has to be handwritten on the forms they gave us. I should have it finished by the end of th > read more
Joshua
Published on 2011-03-12 08:47:00
Joshua had another vivid dream stemming from his photographic memory from the barn fire. Prior to the fire, he has never come to me for a bad dream before. He was crying and shaking so hard. He shook for half an hour in my arms last night. Please joi > read more
WANTED LOWES PROJECT CARDS
Published on 2011-03-11 11:06:00
If you have the Lowe's Project Card and will not be using it, rather than throw it away, please send it to us. We will put it to very good use and it will help us out a lot as we will be spending thousands of dollars there in the coming weeks.Insuran > read more
Clean Up Complete...and Then Some!
Published on 2011-03-07 08:26:00
Clint said that as he opened our driveway gate when he got home Friday, he could hear the back up beeping sound. He knew temptation had overcome me. "Wendy is on the bobcat." That's a nice piece of equipment. I had so much fun driving it; I > read more
Bobcat
Published on 2011-03-07 08:22:00
Joshua said it drives like a Star Wars Barc Speeder.He is actually driving it in this picture.Clint kissing EmilyHannah was very intently staring at the bucket on the bobcat.She would not look up for anything!Caleb > read more
Debris Removal
Published on 2011-03-07 08:10:00
By time the weekend was over, that sweatshirt looked like he had taken it off, thrown in it the muddy ash pile and stomped on it for a few hours.one of the large support beams for the barnAmanda wouldn't stop to take a picture because she was having > read more
Still More Bits and Pieces
Published on 2011-03-04 07:16:00
nails as they fellhinges as they fellwater containers for the livestockThese were much taller!one of three lawn mowers > read more
More Bits and Pieces
Published on 2011-03-04 07:11:00
note the charred groundthings we dug out of the asheskerosene wicklight on the small barnnote the lightbulb's new shapeWe never even gave this building a thought because we were so concerned for the house. > read more
Clean Up
Published on 2011-03-03 09:16:00
BeforeAfterI merely wrote "Farm Bureau Clint," who handles the clean up and rebuild aspect, and told him we were having trouble with the calf getting into the pile. I expected to hear from him within a few days. Within in hours, he had an e > read more
Mustard Seed
Published on 2011-03-02 07:15:00
Through the different subscription services and bookmarks, there are over 250 people regularly reading the blog. We have had over 100,000 recent hits. That's not bad for a blog about a family. Thank you to those who have prayed for us. Thank you to e > read more
The Ponderings of an 11 Year Old
Published on 2011-03-02 06:20:00
Joshua has been blessed with a photographic memory. It is not a perfect photographic memory, but it is a very good one. This is a blessing during homeschool. I discovered it when I noticed he always seemed to be seeing something when he'd recite his > read more
Patrick Henry Mall Chickfila Fundraiser for Local Sick Child
Published on 2011-03-01 17:47:00
Silas is 17 mos old & in CHKD fighting for his life. His brother died at 16 mos from the same thing. A Chickfila Fundraiser is this Thursday from 11 am til 8 pm at the Patrick Henry Mall location. Mention Silas' name with your order & you hel > read more
Bits and Pieces
Published on 2011-03-01 09:01:00
This was the miter saw from my father that we hoped to pass down to Brandon.Clint saw when this propane tank's top blew off. The side cracked too.A smaller blue propane tank (blow torch type) split from the top to bottom on one side.The lawn mower ra > read more
Another Load of "Barn" Goes Down the Road
Published on 2011-03-01 08:55:00
$151 of light ironFunny, I remember paying quite a bit more for it than that. :-)We started hauling loads out of here last Wednesday. The insurance agent and the fire investigator cleared us to do it because of the livestock. We had to go through the > read more
Calf
Published on 2011-02-28 09:47:00
Our heifer calf was burned. This has a 4-5 days healing time on it and looks good. The fence for the pastures diverged off the front and the back of both sides of the barn. Where we had four separate areas, we now have one. We are hoping to hear from > read more
The Night the Barn Burned
Published on 2011-02-25 08:25:00
I have sat down to write this a couple of times and found it hard to write. I am not going to proof read. We have about 2/3 of the debris cleaned up. We want it gone so the children don't have to keep seeing it. Going through it is hard, but we neede > read more
More Pictures and Some Thoughts
Published on 2011-02-23 15:45:00
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=278853&id=518109810&l=0fcbc747b3From what I understand, this link should give you access to the rest of the photos. If it does not work, drop me a line at contentmentacres@yahoo.com and I will try to make > read more
It was VERY Close
Published on 2011-02-23 11:29:00
This was earlier when the fire had come back to life and was making its way around the back. I marked the end of the house in the picture. The entire area in between there and the barn was filled with flames pushed that way by the high winds. You cou > read more
Published on 2011-02-23 11:19:00
The embers were flying so thick in the air, I had to take this shot from inside the back of the barn. For those who know, this was the back stall on the right side.This was the last time I was insideThese embers were in the barn with me. When we left > read more
News Footage
Published on 2011-02-23 06:55:00
Our barn is the backdrop behind Velma Scaife during the liveshots. You can see the brown horse walking around during one and the two Angus cows during another. Little May, our Boer cross goat, got out and stood around with the reporter and Ryan Bella > read more
Visitors
Published on 2011-02-21 15:41:00
In the last two days, we have seen over 60 people! Thank you to everyone who stopped by! Each person picked our spirits up! Each visit was like a gift! We've had many reasons to laugh because of our friends. Clint will be home tomorrow too. Come by a > read more
Watch the News for Pictures
Published on 2011-02-21 15:29:00
Amanda captured this picture while the fire was burning midday Saturday.Channel 13 is getting the scoop on the barn. While they did not ask, I told them I would not publish the pictures of the barn any where until their footage aired. Velma Scaife (I > read more
We Lost Our Big Barn to Fire
Published on 2011-02-20 11:52:00
Last night, we nearly lost our home to a fire. We literally had to snatch our youngest children out of their beds, yell for our other children and run for our safety. We did lose our 4,000 square foot, two story barn. I will share the story and what > read more
Math Freebies and Inexpensive Math Curriculum Grades 1-8
Published on 2011-02-16 14:28:38
Math mammoth offers a complete printable curriculum for grades 1-8 for $32 with an alternative option for $2-$7 each. Scroll to the bottom of the screen to get 300 free worksheets/sample pages."My aim is to help parents and teachers teach math s > read more
Valentine's and a New Bedroom
Published on 2011-02-14 12:01:00
Our Valentine's Day party table was decorated by Caleb.He did a great job! Happy Valentine's Day to everyone who reads this! The new door for the boy's room.We went to solid wood doors because those are much easier to retrofit to the odd door sizes o > read more
Free Physics Lessons
Published on 2011-02-04 09:50:00
The Physics Classroom http://www.physicsclassroom.com/ "The Physics Classroom Tutorial is an online physics tutorial written for high school physics students. The tutorial was originally developed for physics students at Glenbrook South High Sch > read more
Free PreK-12th Grade Curriculum
Published on 2011-02-04 09:45:00
Free World U PreK to 12th Grade: http://www.freeworldu.org/static/index.aspx "We are a 501(c)3 nonprofit online school offering our students a complete preschool through 12th grade curriculum. Our proven program is supported by research that sho > read more
Quck and Easy Dishes
Published on 2011-02-03 11:40:00
Pot Pie Casserolecubed cooked chicken, frozen mixed vegetables, your choice of sauce, mix, bake until vegetables are cooked, top with biscuits or dough and cook until they are golden brownI make two and freeze one uncooked for later. This is one I fr > read more
Love and Laundry
Published on 2011-02-03 11:23:00
Cattle losses at Glenns farm blamed on a pack of coyotes
Published on 2011-02-02 08:21:00
http://www.dailypress.com/news/williamsburg/dp-nws-williamsburg-roundup-0201-20110201,0,6049893.storyCattle losses at Glenns farm blamed on a pack of coyotesA farmer has lost about $14,000 in livestock in the last two weeks to what he believes is a p > read more
Alternative urban education: Parents and city kids benefit from homeschooling
Published on 2011-02-01 15:07:00
This has happened in our family also---->"Homeschooling "absolutely" strengthened the family bond, says mother Diane Linn, whose husband Thomas, a practicing attorney, also taught. "Growing up, our children observed us working > read more
ZZZZzzzzz.....YES!!!
Published on 2011-01-31 10:08:00
Unassisted sleep has been mine for the last four nights. Things are finally setting themselves to right in my body. Thank you for praying for me. I feel much better and am getting things in shape around the house again. So far today, I have washed 4 > read more
Don't Wait on God to "Show Up"
Published on 2011-01-31 10:01:00
I strongly dislike the phrase "waiting on God to show up." It's a lie! Don't wait on God to show up; He's already there!! This is the same God who promises to never leave you nor forsake you! What you are really waiting on is for yourself t > read more
Finally-SLEEP!
Published on 2011-01-25 12:59:00
As of the 21, I had only 2 good night's sleep since Jan 1. One of those nights was due to the melatonin which did not work after the first night. After I passed the baby on New Year's Day, my body would not let me rest. It is common after a miscarria > read more
A Follow Up From Toys R Us..and a lousy one at that
Published on 2011-01-21 16:12:00
We received a reply from the racist incident we witnessed at Toys R Us on December 12, 2010. I wrote them December 13, 2010. This is the first time we have heard from them. We are very disappointed.I have added it to the original post and also here:U > read more
Thank You Stacie
Published on 2011-01-19 10:40:00
This angel holding a baby came from our friend Stacie. Stacie wanted me to have a visual reminder of God's promises of Heaven.When our family looks at this angel, not only are we reminded that our miscarried babies are safely in Heaven where we will > read more
Daisies
Published on 2011-01-19 10:10:00
Daisies are my favorite flower. They are simple, but elegant.They remind me of long summer days with bright sunshine and the hope I had that one day "He loves me!" would come true.Thank you to the thoughtful co-workers who sent these to let > read more
Melatonin Did the Trick
Published on 2011-01-13 14:20:00
Clint came home with melatonin for me to try last night. It worked! I feel and sound more like myself today!One note for people interested in taking melatonin to conquer insomnia. I constantly hear from people who say melatonin did not work for them. > read more
Knocked Down but Not Out of the Fight
Published on 2011-01-12 09:31:00
When a pregnancy stops abruptly due to miscarriage, it can throw the body into a tailspin as it tries to deal with the sudden hormonal changes. For me, it manifests itself in greasy hair, greasy face, pimples, weight gain and INSOMNIA. I've lost trac > read more
It's Over
Published on 2011-01-08 12:25:00
It has been a long, hard week with a few scary moments, but it's over. I tend to be very open and practical about natural things, but I know some people are offended easily and that is not my intention here. The children I do have need their mom back > read more
Friends
Published on 2011-01-06 13:31:00
During trials, you find out the value of the people you know. Their hearts are revealed as they lift you up and help you through.The hearts of our friends are so beautiful and loving. God has blessed us with good people.This basket is from Clint's co > read more
Middles Bring it Home!
Published on 2011-01-06 13:20:00
Joshua, Bethany and Caleb took first, second and third place in our church's gingerbread contest!Way to go Team Asbell! > read more
Best Friends Make the Best Husbands
Published on 2011-01-05 09:48:00
Hannah could not walk in the snow so Clint carried her the entire time.For some reason, she was still wiped out and took a nap in one of her favorite spots!During the miscarriage, Clint was beside me the entire time because he was concerned I'd have > read more
Miscarriage
Published on 2011-01-02 16:33:00
The physical miscarriage started New Year's Day afternoon. Thank you to everyone who was praying with us about that.We are very tired but OK. For the next few days, I am on bedrest. I will be on limited activity for a while after that. Love to all of > read more
Happy 2011
Published on 2011-01-01 19:25:00
May the Lord bless you with a wonderful year filled with blessings and opportunities for growth. > read more